How much is a 2nd opinion worth?

How much is a 2nd opinion worth?

The first question I normally have to deal with after presenting a treatment plan is “How much is this going to cost?”. While dentists may all charge different fees, Second Dental has tried to standardize the value of a 2nd opinion. The goal is not to charge an arm and a leg, but rather to simulate the experience of an actual dental office visit.

Second Dental has compared fee schedules of the major insurance companies as well as independent pricing for the average dental exam. which include radiographs and a comprehensive examination. Ultimately when a patient comes to my office for a 2nd opinion, I have to charge them for these services so it seems fair that the pricing should be similar for an online experience mirroring that of the dental office (i.e Second Dental).

Average dental visits range from $50-200 dollars depending on a variety of factors. We worked hard to develop a price that was comparable to the national average; which is how we settled on our standard $137 fee. The $137 dollar fee includes a written report and if the patient wants to schedule a video conference call there is an extra $50 charge. Originally we wanted to have a flat fee $187 and include a video conference with every 2nd opinion, but some patients wanted an option that was less expensive. We decided to offer the patient the ability to decline the video conference and receive a written report answering any questions that were listed on the original submission form.

For less than $200, you are able to mimic the dental office visit for the same amount of money without having to take time out of your schedule to do so. The best part about Second Dental’s business model is that it allows dentists to work around the patient’s schedule and not the other way around.

I know some patients will prefer an in office visit because I have asked many of mine if they would have utilized an online website for their 2nd opinion. While some say no, most (90%) of the time my patients have responded with yes. Not having to take off of work was the most valuable piece of an online 2nd opinion for them, and for good reason. Time is the most valuable asset we have today, and a dental office visit will normally take at least half of your day; or 4 work hours. Second Dental eliminates this hassle while, most importantly, not sacrificing standard of care. So I ask again, how much is a 2nd opinion worth? We say $137.